campaign on tuition fees

As you will be aware, the
Government have announced that the Parliamentary vote on their tuition fees
proposals will take place on 9 December 2010.

The Union
continues to support the joint UCU and NUS ‘Fund our Future’ campaign. This
circular informs you that there will be a period of intense campaigning activity
over the coming week in the run up to the vote, including:

protests at universities across the country on8 December 2010 (the day prior to the vote in
Parliament);

mass lobby of MPs on 9 December 2010 itself, followed by a
rally in Westminster;

a ‘candlelit’ vigil during the evening of vote with 9,000
‘candles’ to represent potential fees.

Further details on these
activities, including precise timings and locations, will be circulated as soon
as they become available.

In the meantime, divisions
and associations are encouraged to publicise these activities and mobilise
attendance wherever possible.Whilst we
are conscious that 9 December 2010 is a school day, it is hoped that retired
members and part-time members not working on that day will be able to attend
these activities. It is also hoped that
some members may be able to reach agreement with head teachers on the release
from schools and sixth form colleges of teachers wishing to attend the
protests, where lessons can be covered.

The Union’s national
banner will be carried at the rally in Westminster
on 9 December 2010. Divisions and
associations are urged to bring their banners too to help demonstrate the
strong support of the NUT for the campaign and our solidarity with students and
lecturers.

Given that there are likely to be further protests by students in the
run-up to the vote on 9 December 2010, it is important to reiterate that the Union is not calling for school pupils to walk out of
lessons and must advise members that they should not encourage pupils to leave
their classes.

The Union
is also working closely with NUS, UCU and others on a campaign to save
Education Maintenance Allowances. Further information on this campaign will be
circulated separately.

Thank you for your
continued support during these particularly challenging times for the education
service.